NEW DELHI, October 22 (Aalimi Nation) – The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an eight-point advisory asking private satellite television channels to follow the Programme Code strictly, and to avoid content that promotes communal or anti-national attitudes. The ministry warned that violations could invite action under the law.
The ministry said it had noticed instances of non-compliance with the programme code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994. An Inter-Departmental Committee, set up under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, found that some telecasts were not in keeping with the spirit of the code. It also noted that similar news and visuals were being aired across multiple channels on similar topics.
The ministry said inappropriate behaviour and language should not be normalised on television. Channels were asked to comply with Section 5 of the Act and Rule 6 of the Rules "in letter and spirit."
On live debates and panel discussions, the ministry said programmes must not promote communal or anti-national attitudes. Channels were asked to brief panellists carefully and to use corrective steps such as muting or disclaimers.
On security operations, the advisory states that live coverage of anti-terror operations by security forces is prohibited. Coverage should be limited to periodic briefings by an authorised officer until the operation ends, and visuals should be time-stamped where necessary so that viewers do not mistake recorded footage for live telecasts. The ministry noted that it had issued similar advisories earlier, including in June 2024 and April 2025.
On crime and violence, channels were asked to rely on verified facts, keep reporting balanced, and avoid speculation, half-truths and sensationalism that could glorify or normalise unlawful behaviour. Disturbing visuals should not be repeated excessively, and blurring or masking should be used where warranted, to avoid unnecessary distress to viewers.
The ministry cautioned channels against disclosing details, photographs or family information that could identify survivors of sexual offences, in line with directions of the Supreme Court. It also advised caution in using artificial intelligence, including generative AI, for graphics and virtual presenters. According to the advisory, AI use may be limited to an assistive role and must not compromise accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity.
For natural calamities and major incidents, channels were told to time-stamp visuals where necessary to avoid panic, and to use only authentic maps of India published by the Survey of India. Broadcasters were also asked to strengthen internal content-review processes and train staff.
The Programme Code is laid down in Section 5 of the 1995 Act and Rule 6 of the 1994 Rules. The ministry cited Rule 6(1)(a) on violent or disturbing visuals and Rule 6(1)(p) on live coverage of anti-terror operations.
No reactions from broadcasters, industry bodies or political parties had been reported at the time of writing.
It remains to be seen how channels respond, and whether the ministry follows the advisory with notices or action against specific broadcasters.
